Arsenal and Liverpool have received a massive boost in their pursuit of Nico Williams as he is ready to move to England.
According to a report from Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Nico Williams is ready to leave Spain as he feels his dream move to Barcelona is no longer a possibility. The Spanish international is open to a move to the Premier League, and it is a significant boost for both Arsenal and Liverpool, who are keen on his signature.
Williams has come up the ranks at Athletic Club, and he has been an important part of their first team for a while now. The 22-year-old established himself as one of the best wingers in Europe with incredible performances last season. He scored eight goals and racked up 19 assists in his 37 outings.
The Athletic Club graduate went on to help Spain lift the European Championship in the summer. The Spaniard was constantly linked with a move away during the last summer window but ended up deciding to stay with the Basque outfit.
Barcelona were one of the clubs that were interested in his signature. While Nico Williams dreams of playing for the Catalan giants and would love to join them, he has realised that his dream might not come true anytime soon.
Hansi Flick’s team are struggling to register Dani Olmo who they signed for €60 million last summer from RB Leipzig. As a result, there is a major doubt over their ability to trigger Williams’ €58 million release clause.
Williams could join Arsenal or Liverpool
With Barcelona struggling financially, the 22-year-old is open to a move to the Premier League, where Arsenal and Liverpool are both long-term admirers. Both clubs have been keeping a close eye on him and would love to have him in their squad.
The Gunners want to sign a world-class left-winger to further bolster their attack, and Nico Williams could be just the perfect fit for them. With Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling out injured, Arsenal need more quality on the flanks, and the Spanish international could certainly help them stay alive in the title race.
Mikel Arteta’s team have the funds needed to get a deal over the line this month, and the message from Arsenal is that they want quality over quantity. While Liverpool already have a lot of options on the flanks, they are looking to prepare for life without Mohamed Salah.
Williams might play on the opposite flank, but he can surely end up being their next big star and the focal point of their attacks. The UEFA Euro 2024 winner could help them fill the void Salah will leave behind in terms of goals and assists.